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Near Wakanda, Central Africa, June 5, 1943
Aryan materialized near the KAVACH team, the air around him shimmering briefly before settling. The dense jungle of Central Africa surrounded them, the sounds of wildlife creating a symphony of nature. Agent Arjun and his team were already in position, their senses heightened and ready for the journey ahead.
"Director," Arjun saluted him, his voice steady. "The Wakandans have provided coordinates for our meeting. It's a few miles from here, near their border."
Aryan nodded and returned the salute, his eyes scanning the lush landscape. "Lead the way, Arjun."
The team moved swiftly through the jungle, their movements silent and efficient. As they approached the designated meeting point, the foliage began to thin, revealing a hidden path that led to a clearing. There, a group of Wakandan soldiers awaited, their presence both regal and imposing.
S'Yan stepped forward, his demeanor respectful. "Welcome, President Aryan of Bharat. We are honored by your presence."
Aryan inclined his head. "The honor is mine, S'Yan. Let us proceed."
The Wakandan soldiers led them through a series of concealed pathways, each step bringing them closer to the heart of Wakanda. As they emerged from the dense jungle, the sight before them was breathtaking. The city of Birnin Zana, also known as the Golden City, sprawled out in a magnificent display of advanced technology and traditional African architecture.
Tall skyscrapers with thatched roofs and hanging gardens towered above, while maglev trains zipped through the air, connecting various parts of the city. The streets were bustling with activity, yet there was an air of harmony and order. Pedestrians walked along commerce-filled streets, car-free except for the occasional appearance of bus-like shuttles.
Aryan marveled at the seamless blend of nature and technology. "Wakanda is truly a marvel," he remarked, his eyes sparkling with amazement. Seeing this, he reminded himself to make his own nation as beautiful as this or even greater with a perfect blend of magic and technology.
S'Yan smiled with pride. "We have worked hard to preserve our heritage while embracing the future. Our king awaits you in the palace."
They continued their journey, passing through markets filled with vibrant colors and the sounds of lively trade. The people of Wakanda, dressed in a mix of traditional and modern attire, greeted them with curious yet respectful glances. It was clear that Aryan's presence was significant.
As they approached the palace, the grandeur of the structure became evident. The palace, a blend of sleek modern design and ancient African motifs, stood as a testament to Wakanda's rich history and advanced capabilities. Guards in ceremonial attire stood at attention, their eyes sharp and vigilant.
Inside, the palace was a marvel of engineering and artistry. Intricate carvings adorned the walls, and the air was filled with the scent of exotic flowers. They were led to a grand hall where King T'Chaka awaited, seated on a throne that exuded authority and wisdom.
"President Aryan of Bharat," T'Chaka greeted, rising to his feet. "Welcome to Wakanda."
Aryan bowed slightly. "Thank you, King T'Chaka. It is an honor to be here. You may simply call me by my name. I don't like much formalities."
T'Chaka smiled warmly and gestured for Aryan to sit. "Very well, Aryan, then let us discuss the future of our nations. Bast has spoken highly of you, and I believe our alliance will bring great benefits to both our peoples."
Aryan and T'Chaka settled into their seats, the atmosphere in the grand hall charged with anticipation. The conversation between them began, ranging from various topics on the recent events that led to the independence of Bharat and the rise of powerful metahumans like Aryan and the recent rise in both power and influence of the new Bharat. The King expressed his admiration for the way they fought and achieved self-rule from the oppressive forces and Bharat's impending rise in strength as a nation.
Aryan smiled in appreciation of his words. "Thank you for the kind words, King T'Chaka. Bharat is determined to shed its painful past and emerge as a strong and powerful nation."
His expression then turned serious as he continued, "I see that Wakanda has been aware of the recent events outside despite being isolationists. Then if you don't mind my rudeness, may I ask why Wakanda, despite all this advanced technology and capabilities, did not help the people of Africa in their plight?"
Aryan already knew the reason behind the isolation of Wakanda. He was not one to judge but he still decided to ask this as he wanted to know about T'Chaka's thoughts.
T'Chaka nodded, his expression somber as he sighed. "Haaa…I expected this question coming from people from outside. You see, Aryan, Wakanda has remained an isolationist kingdom simply because we have been wary of the outside world's malice and greed if we reveal ourselves as a far more technologically advanced nation than they could ever imagine, as well as our resources like Vibranium."
"To protect ourselves and our resources from being taken advantage of, we had to hide ourselves, no matter how much it actually pains us seeing our brothers and sisters from outside suffer."
Aryan, expecting an answer along similar lines, then raised another question. "Then are you not wary of us too? Why do you seek an alliance with us, breaking your customs?"
T'Chaka answered, his voice calm but resolute, "Yes, we have been previously reluctant, but Bast's words made us take a leap of faith with you."
Aryan curiously asked, leaning forward, "I have heard a lot of times about this advice given to you by Bast, what exactly did she tell you?"
"Before answering your question, let me ask you, do you know about the hidden kingdom in the ocean, Atlantis?" T'chaka asked.
Aryan nodded while thinking about the kingdom of Atlantis in the Marvel universe, "Yes."
He knew that in this universe, Atlantis was originally a small continent, roughly the size of modern Australia, located in the Atlantic Ocean between North America and Europe. It sank beneath the sea around 20,000 years ago during an event known as the Great Cataclysm. Before its submersion, Atlantis was known to be home to one of the most advanced civilizations of its time. The Atlanteans were skilled sailors, craftsmen, traders, astrologers, and alchemists. But, after the Great Cataclysm, the survivors somehow adapted to underwater life, becoming the water-breathing race known as Homo mermanus. They then built a new society in the ruins of their old one, with the capital city also named Atlantis.
T'Chaka nodded and explained, "You see, Aryan, Wakanda and Atlantis are long-time rivals due to our technological prowess."
"But Bast has warned us that our rivalry with Atlantis will intensify with Namor, the Prince of Atlantis, coming to power," T'Chaka continued. "He is ambitious and in the future will pose a threat to our sovereignty. Bast has advised that an alliance with Bharat, with its vast number of metahumans and your own formidable power, would be beneficial for us."
Aryan smiled, intrigued, "Interesting."
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